Goldfield Access Network, Goldfield Telephone, Goldfield Communications, North Central Wireless of Goldfield have been sold, and Jared Johnson has been hired as the new manager.

Johnson is originally from St. Paul, Minnesota. After graduating from high school in 1987, he attended the University of St. Thomas where he received his Bachelor's degree in computer science with a minor in aerospace studies.

Johnson spent the next 10 years as an officer in the United States Air Force. During this time, he held positions including database analyst through flight commander. His last three years with the Air Force were spent as part of the USAF College recruiting effort.

In 2001, Johnson "chose family over a military career," and found employment as an operations manager. He was responsible for technical operations including voice, video and data. The remainder there for 13 years, taking charge of such projects as their fiber to the premise build, cable television expansion, upgrades to internet access platforms, and had the responsibility for the entire delivery infrastructure.

In July of this year, Johnson decided it was time for another change of path, and accepted the general manger position for Goldfield Access Network, Goldfield Telephone, Goldfield Communications, and North Central Wireless.

"It became a family decision to accept the position after a visit to Humboldt and Wright Counties showed us the abundant educational, professional, and recreation opportunities in the in the area," said Johnson.

By August, the Johnson family had packed their bags and moved to Humboldt, Iowa. His wife, Kim, plans on getting back into the health care field. His son, Nick is a junior at Humboldt, High School and his daughter Leah is in the sixth grade. She is also very happy to have found a new dance studio to be a part of in the community as that is her true passion.

"There's a welcome home feel here, "said Johnson. "It just feels right. We're happy and comfortable... and it was important for us to stay in a small town setting. We've hit the best of both worlds here."

Johnson is looking forward to meeting more of the people and businesses his new company services, including those in Eagle Grove, Clarion, Humboldt, Goldfield, Dakota City, Renwick, and cable television in Woolstock. He is also excited about things to come in the future, like a new cable TV package that includes HD and DVR, and getting the next generation of technology to customers.

"GAN has a really good name in the area. Service is key to our business," he added. "We are happy to assist you and want to know if you have problems or questions".

But it's not totally all work for Johnson and the business he manages. He also plans on a little fun for the kids of the area. They will be sponsoring a coloring contest for the holiday, so be sure to watch the papers for more details.

Until then, if you would like to meet Johnson for yourself, stop by the Goldfield Telephone Company building in Goldfield anytime, Monday through Friday. He would be happy to visit with you.